Finance Intern at British American Tobacco (BAT)

PURPOSE STATEMENT

The purpose of this internship is to support the Accounts Payable team with invoice tracking, payment preparation, supplier-query administration, tax-related checks, record keeping, and audit documentation. The intern will perform assigned tasks under supervision, use approved templates and procedures, and escalate exceptions to the responsible team member. The role is intended to provide practical exposure to Accounts payable operations and does not carry independent approval, payment authorization or process ownership responsibilities.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Invoice-processing support: Assist with receiving, logging and tracking supplier invoices and follow up on missing information or approvals.
• Invoice coding support: Code invoices in the system for review and approval prior to posting.
• Payment-run support: Help prepare payment instructions, block and unblock schedules, and support documentation for review and approval.
• Urgent payment support: Verify required approvals are obtained and documents are available prior to raising urgent payment requests.
• GBS coordination support: Track invoices submitted to GBS, follow up on posting status, and escalate unresolved items.
• Approval follow-up: Send reminders to requisitioners and approvers and maintain an accurate tracker of invoice posting status.
• Tax support: Assist with preparation of withholding tax schedules and withholding VAT checks using approved templates, with outputs subject to review.
• Supplier-query support: Acknowledge and respond to routine supplier payment queries, gather relevant information and refer complex or sensitive matters to the Accounts Payable Manager.
• Proof-of-payment support: Share proof of payments with suppliers on request.
• Records and controls: Maintain accurate files and trackers, follow AP procedures and promptly escalate exceptions or potential control issues.
• Learning and development: Participate in assigned AP activities, ask questions, and gradually build practical knowledge under supervision.

CORE RELATIONSHIPS

• Corporate Finance Manager - Kenya
• Accounts Payable Manager
• Treasury Manager
• Payroll Executive
• GBS AP Team
• Tax Team
• GBS Banking Operations Team
• Internal Requisitioners and Approvers
• Suppliers, as directed

SKILLS, KNOWLEDGE AND EXPERIENCE

• Bachelor’s degree or ongoing studies in Finance, Accounting, Economics, Business or related discipline.
• Basic understanding of accounting principles and an interest in developing practical corporate finance experience.
• Working knowledge of Microsoft Office, particularly Excel, Power Point and Word.
• Exposure to SAP or another enterprise system is an advantage, but not essential.
• Good attention to detail, willingness to learn, and ability to follow established procedures.
• Clear communication, teamwork, and ability to seek guidance when required.
• Ability to organize assigned tasks and work within agreed timelines under supervision.